CURVES in Penarth is holding its annual food drive and is encouraging members to donate bags of food to help those in need.

The Ladies Fitness Centre will waive joining fees to all new members if they bring in a bag of food for charity.

All the food will be donated to Tabernacle Church and will help those struggling to feed their families.

The gym has taken part in the scheme ever since it opened and is hoping to collect its biggest total yet this year.

Gym owner Delyth Williams said that they had chosen Tabernacle Church as they wanted to support a local cause:

"The last few years we have donated to Tabernacle Church as we wanted to make it more local so Penarth people that are struggling can benefit more."

She added that they were encouraging people to donate non-perishable food, including tinned and dried food.

"It's awfully sad that some people don't seem to have enough money to look after their families," she said.

"It's really sad that even those working are struggling and can't afford it.

"Charity starts in your own community so we are glad to help and it's nice to give something back."

The Food Drive will run for a full month until April 14.

She added that the gym was ideal for those getting back into fitness.

"There are a lot of people that suffer from various ailments and our exercised can help as 30 minutes working out here is equivalent to 90 minutes in a normal gym."

Curves, at 57 Arcot Street, is open Monday to Friday between 8am and 7.30pm, and 9am until 12pm on Saturdays.

For more information contact the gym on 02920 708020